Unprotected sexual contact is a situation that can cause anxiety and raise many questions. It is important to understand: in most cases, there is a clear and structured plan of action that helps reduce health risks. Let’s go through what is действительно important to do — and what should be avoided.
What not to do
The first instinct after unprotected contact is to “do something urgently”. However, some actions are not only ineffective but can also be harmful.
Not recommended:
- douching
- using antiseptics or trying to “treat” mucous membranes
This does not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections and may cause irritation of the mucosa.
What to do in the first hours
The most appropriate first step is to consult a doctor. It’s better not to delay: many preventive measures are only effective in the first hours or days.
During the consultation, you may discuss:
- emergency contraception
- if there is a risk of unintended pregnancy, the doctor will help choose an appropriate option and explain the timing
- prevention of certain STIs (Doxy PEP)
- testing for infections
If your status is unknown, tests may be recommended for:
- HIV
- Hepatitis B
- other sexually transmitted infections
Post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (PEP)
This is a 28-day course of antiretroviral therapy that reduces the risk of infection.
Important:
- start as early as possible
- ideally — within the first hours
- maximum timeframe — up to 72 hours
Hepatitis B prevention
The approach depends on:
- whether vaccination has been done
- whether antibodies are present
- whether the partner’s status is known
Possible options:
- administration of immunoglobulin (HBIG)
- initiation of vaccination
Optimal timing — within the first 24–48 hours, maximum — up to 7 days.
What to do next
Further steps depend on whether prophylaxis was carried out.
If prophylaxis was not performed or was incomplete ⬇️
Monitoring and follow-up testing are recommended:
- after 2 weeks — STI testing
- after 4–6 weeks — HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C
- after 3 months — HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C
- after 6 months — syphilis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C
If prophylaxis was performed (PEP, hepatitis B, Doxy PEP) ⬇️
The follow-up schedule may be less intensive:
- after 4–6 weeks — STI tests (if symptoms are present), syphilis, hepatitis C
- after 3 months — HIV, hepatitis C
- after 6 months — syphilis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C
Important: if any symptoms appear — do not wait for the scheduled time, consult a doctor earlier!
If the risk repeats
If such situations are not isolated, it is worth discussing: pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (PrEP). PrEP is the use of medication that reduces the risk of HIV infection. Even when using PrEP, it is important to remember: condoms remain the only method that protects against most other STIs.
When you should definitely see a doctor
- unprotected contact occurred
- there is a risk of pregnancy
- there is a risk of infection
- any symptoms have appeared
- you want to discuss PrEP or undergo screening
If you need urgent help, testing, or consultation in Tbilisi:
- testing
- HIV/AIDS consultations
- post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP)
🏥 Center: Tengiz Tsertsvadze Infectious Diseases, AIDS and Clinical Immunology Research Center
☎️ +995 551 82 66 66
If it is important for you to have calm, clear, and non-pressuring support, you can also consult a GP at A CLINIC.
We can help you:
- assess risks
- create a diagnostic plan
- explain test results
- choose further management
Take care of yourself and remember: regular screening is part of taking care of your health 🤍